Concerns About Incomplete Suture Removal After Cyst Surgery

Cyst suture removal

Hello Doctor, I am the questioner 204748.
I would like to ask what happens if the stitches are not completely removed.
I had a follow-up appointment on the 22nd, and the doctor said he was hesitant to remove them too early (the doctor mentioned removing the stitches on the 26th after the surgery on the 10th).
I just finished showering and noticed that on the left side, only one end of the stitch remains, while the other end is completely gone (similar to having only the tail end of the stitch left).
Will this affect the success of the stitch removal? Additionally, I would like to ask about the question from 204580.
The doctor mentioned that the pathology report can clearly differentiate between the two types of tissue, which means that the tissue removed from the anal fistula and the sac taken from the cyst can be tested to confirm whether it is a fistula or a cyst, correct? Thank you, Doctor.
I feel much more at ease with Dr.
Ke's response.

An, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/01/23

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

Whether the sutures can be removed successfully depends on your physician.
An online consultation cannot provide you with an answer regarding the nature of the excised tissue.
You should ask the surgeon during your follow-up appointment, as they will have access to the pathology report.

Reply Date: 2024/01/23

More Info

After cyst surgery, concerns about incomplete suture removal can be quite common among patients. It's understandable to feel anxious about the healing process and the potential implications of not having all sutures removed properly. Here’s a detailed response to your questions based on medical knowledge and practices.

Firstly, if sutures are not removed completely, it can lead to several complications. The most immediate concern is that remnants of the suture material can cause localized inflammation or irritation. This can manifest as redness, swelling, or even pain at the site of the surgery. In some cases, if the suture is made of non-absorbable material, it may eventually lead to a foreign body reaction, where the body treats the remaining suture as an invader, potentially causing chronic inflammation or infection.

In your case, you mentioned that after your shower, you noticed that one side of the suture was missing while the other side still had some material left. This situation can occur if the suture was not anchored properly or if it was absorbed by the body if it was made of absorbable material. If the remaining suture is still intact and visible, it is essential to follow up with your surgeon. They will assess whether the remaining suture needs to be removed or if it can be left in place without causing any issues.

Regarding your concern about the pathology report distinguishing between the tissue from the anal fistula and the cyst, yes, pathology reports are designed to provide detailed information about the tissue samples taken during surgery. The pathologist will examine the tissues under a microscope to identify the cellular structure and any abnormalities. This examination can confirm whether the tissue is consistent with a fistula or a cyst, helping guide further treatment if necessary.

It is crucial to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider. If you have any concerns about your healing process or the status of your sutures, do not hesitate to reach out to your doctor before your scheduled follow-up appointment. They may recommend an earlier visit if they believe it is necessary.

In summary, while incomplete suture removal can lead to complications, it is manageable with proper medical attention. Your surgeon will be able to provide the best guidance based on a physical examination and any necessary imaging or tests. Additionally, understanding the pathology report can provide reassurance and clarity regarding your diagnosis and treatment plan. Always prioritize your health and well-being by seeking professional advice when in doubt.

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